The role of Aotearoa New Zealand midwives as positive influencers on food literacy with Samoan families.

Abstract

Background: Healthy eating is crucial for optimal development during all stages of life and most particularly during pregnancy. According to Stats NZ, Pasefika people make up 8.1% of the total Aotearoa New Zealand population. Information from the Ministry of Health suggests that Pasefika people have the highest level of food insecurity and the highest level of obesity. Women are more likely than men to be involved with food preparation; therefore, it is important to know to what extent women are aware of what healthy eating means for themselves and their families. Aim: This study aimed to explore an understanding of the levels of food literacy among representatives of three generations of women in five Samoan families; how each of the three generations ensured that their dietary intake contributed to their quality of health; and whether the extent of food literacy was influenced both within and between/across generations. Method: The study used a combined Delphi-Talanoa approach to interview 15 Samoan women about the levels of their understanding of food literacy. Findings: Midwives played an important role in helping pregnant Samoan women understand about healthy eating during pregnancy. Women shared with other female relatives what they had learned about healthy eating from their midwives. Learnings taken from midwives included the importance of choosing healthy foods, portion control and physical activity. Conclusion: All study participants who had received antenatal care in Aotearoa New Zealand mentioned the important role of midwives in increasing their understanding of healthy lifestyle choices. What the women learned from their midwives also informed their wider family or aiga.